Are you ready to ignite your taste buds with a burst of flavor? Look no further than the humble Shishito pepper! Native to Japan, these slender green peppers have gained popularity worldwide for their unique, slightly sweet and smoky flavor. For adventurous cooks, the possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating Shishito peppers into your culinary repertoire.
From savory stir-fries to spicy tacos, and from crispy tempura bits to creamy risottos, we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this underrated pepper. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these innovative dishes are sure to inspire your next cooking adventure. So go ahead, get creative with Shishito peppers, and discover the thrill of exploring new flavors!
Blistered Shishito Peppers with Lemon Zest
A flavorful and aromatic snack that combines the natural sweetness of shishito peppers with a burst of citrus from lemon zest. This simple recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb shishito peppers
– 2 lemons, zested
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the peppers and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Place the peppers on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with salt.
5. Roast the peppers for 10-12 minutes, or until they blister and start to char.
6. Remove the peppers from the oven and immediately sprinkle the lemon zest over them.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Shishito Peppers
Elevate your snack game with this simple and addictive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of shishito peppers with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a quick appetizer or party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound shishito peppers
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the shishito peppers and remove any stems or leaves.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
4. Place the shishito peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the peppers.
6. Sprinkle salt to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Shishito Peppers!
Spicy Shishito Pepper Tacos
Add a spicy kick to your taco Tuesday with this recipe that combines the sweetness of roasted shishito peppers with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb shishito peppers
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss shishito peppers with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Roast peppers for 15-20 minutes or until charred and slightly blistered.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing roasted peppers onto tortillas and topping with desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately, with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shishito Pepper Tempura
Shishito Pepper Tempura Recipe
Transform ordinary shishito peppers into a crispy, savory delight with this simple tempura recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 12-15 shishito peppers, stems removed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, ice-cold water, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
2. Add baking soda and white pepper to the batter mixture; whisk until combined.
3. Cut shishito peppers into 1-inch pieces.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
5. Dip pepper pieces into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
6. Carefully add battered peppers to hot oil in batches, being mindful not to overcrowd.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon; drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes total
Enjoy your crispy Shishito Pepper Tempura!
Shishito Pepper and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the sweetness of succulent shrimp with the smoky heat of Shishito peppers, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s both spicy and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cups Shishito peppers, sliced into thin rings
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the Shishito peppers and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers start to soften.
5. Stir in soy sauce and honey. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan and stir to combine with the pepper mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Shishito Pepper Pizza with Goat Cheese
Elevate your pizza game with this unique combination of sweet and spicy flavors, featuring crispy Shishito peppers and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 12-15 Shishito peppers, sliced into strips
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Shishito pepper strips, and balsamic vinegar.
3. Spread the mixture evenly over the pre-baked pizza crust.
4. Top with goat cheese crumbles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the goat cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Shishito Peppers with Sea Salt
Shishito peppers are a popular Japanese snack that’s both sweet and savory. By grilling them with a sprinkle of sea salt, you’ll bring out their natural flavor and add a touch of sophistication to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint Shishito peppers
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the Shishito peppers and remove any stems or leaves.
3. Brush both sides of the peppers with olive oil.
4. Place the peppers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re slightly charred and tender.
5. Remove the peppers from the grill and sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or let cool and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Avocado Salad
Shishito Pepper and Avocado Salad: A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweet heat of Shishito peppers with the creaminess of avocado.
Shishito Pepper Skewers with Miso Glaze
Elevate your snack game with these addictive skewers, featuring sweet and spicy Shishito peppers glazed with a savory miso mixture. Perfect for a quick appetizer or party treat!
Ingredients:
– 20-25 Shishito peppers
– 1/4 cup miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread Shishito peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
4. Brush the miso glaze evenly over the peppers on the skewers.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shishito Pepper Pasta with Chili Oil
This recipe combines the sweetness of pasta with the bold flavors of Korean chili flakes and Japanese shishito peppers, all tied together with a drizzle of spicy chili oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup shishito peppers, sliced
– 2 tbsp. Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chili oil (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sliced shishito peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
4. Stir in Korean chili flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and pepper mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, drizzled with chili oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with these addictive lettuce wraps filled with crispy chicken, sweet peppers, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 Shishito peppers, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves (Romaine or Buttercrunch work well)
– Optional: your favorite toppings (avocado, red onion, feta cheese)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While the chicken is cooking, heat the Shishito peppers in a pan with a little oil until slightly charred.
5. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken, peppers, and desired toppings onto lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shishito Pepper Risotto with Parmesan
A creamy and flavorful risotto infused with the subtle smokiness of Shishito peppers, finished with a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 Shishito peppers, sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced Shishito peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly caramelized.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed.
5. Warm the vegetable broth in a separate pot.
6. Gradually add the warmed broth to the rice mixture, stirring constantly, and cooking for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Sausage Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful flatbread featuring spicy sausage and crunchy Shishito peppers. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 4-6 Shishito peppers, sliced into rings
– 1/2 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread on a floured surface to desired thickness.
3. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the sliced Shishito peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Brush the flatbread with olive oil and top with cooked sausage and peppers.
6. Sprinkle with parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shishito Pepper Sushi Rolls
Experience the perfect fusion of Japanese flavors and Korean spices with these addictive Shishito Pepper Sushi Rolls. The sweet and smoky heat of the peppers pairs surprisingly well with the creamy avocado and crunchy cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sushi rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup Shishito pepper strips (roasted or grilled)
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the Shishito peppers into thin strips.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a few strips of roasted Shishito pepper, sliced avocado, and cucumber in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with sesame seeds and soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Corn Chowder
This vibrant and flavorful chowder combines the sweetness of corn with the subtle spiciness of Shishito peppers, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3-4 Shishito peppers, sliced
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Shishito peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly softened.
3. Add corn kernels, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chowder cook for 10-12 minutes, or until corn is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Shishito Pepper Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful and visually appealing Shishito pepper stuffed mushrooms. The combination of earthy mushroom caps, sweet and spicy peppers, and creamy cheese is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1/4 cup Shishito peppers, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Shishito peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly charred.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cooked peppers, then top with grated cheddar cheese.
4. Dot the top of each mushroom with butter.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Tofu Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the sweet and spicy flavors of shishito peppers with the savory taste of tofu, all wrapped up in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups shishito peppers, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the shishito peppers and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the peppers start to soften.
4. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir-fry for another minute, until everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shishito Pepper and Beef Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the sweetness of beef with the spicy kick of shishito peppers, all wrapped up in a savory and aromatic stir-fry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4-6 shishito peppers, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced shishito peppers and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your cooking with these 18 mouth-watering recipes featuring shishito peppers! From Blistered Shishito Peppers with Lemon Zest to Shishito Pepper Sushi Rolls, and from Spicy Shishito Pepper Tacos to Shishito Pepper Risotto with Parmesan, there’s something for every adventurous cook. Learn how to prepare these flavorful peppers in a variety of ways, including grilling, sautéing, and tempura-frying. With shishito pepper recipes ranging from appetizers to main courses, you’ll be sure to find inspiration for your next meal.
